2013 Aston Martin DB9 unveiled as Virage axed

Aston Martin have unveiled the 2013 DB9 while at the same time, disposing the Virage nameplate from their line-up. The V12 engine has received a horsepower boost but the exterior changes are barely noticeable.

The front grille of the new DB9 is inspired by the One-77 hypercar that features five horizontal vanes which are chamfered to create an aerofoil profile. It also gets zinc bonnet vents and a pronounced rear boot ‘flip’ to further enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car.

The cabin interiors will feature jewel-like glass switchgear, full-grain leather interior with the welt feature that featured on the Virage, Walnut trim with graphite and iridium surrounds on the centre console. But it won’t have the updated interior design that premiered in the 2013 Vanquish. There will also be an optional carbon-fibre pack available for both the exterior and interior.

The 2+2 coupe is powered by a front mounted 48-valve 6-litre V12 that send power to the rear wheels. The motor is mated to a ‘Touchtronic 2’ six-speed transmission with electronic shift-by wire control system; no traditional manual gearbox is being offered. Maximum output is rated at 510 hp at 6,500 rpm and 620 Nm at 5,500 rpm, bettering the old DB9’s 40 hp and 19 Nm over the old DB9.

The 0-100 kph dash is completed in 4.6 seconds and the speedo needle will go all the way up to 295 kph.

Both the 398 mm front discs and the 398mm rear discs are made of carbon ceramic and they are clamped by 6-piston and 4-piston calipers, respectively. The 20-inch 5-spoke cast alloy painted wheels wear Pirelli 245-section rubber upfront and 295-section at the rear.

The Aston Martin Virage used to sit between the DB9 and DBS. But since, the DBS has become the Vanquish, the new DB9 will take the mantle of ‘Sports GT’.

The 2013 DB9 will also be available as the convertible Volante version. Prices will starts at $185,400 which roughly equates to Dh 1,107,000 and as per plan it will hit showrooms in November.

Keep track of the latest updates and prices in the Aston Martin buyer guide.